An underwater paradise

IANS

Friday, 23 June 2017

Scuba diving is one of those “must do before I die” kind of activities. It’s breathing in an environment humans were not made to breathe in, proof that we have extended our ability to live beyond the land.

Scuba diving lets every individual experience the world the same way a fish does — underwater. Just imagine having gills and roaming in the mysterious sea, blowing bubbles next to a sting ray, swimming alongside a white-tip reef shark, searching through layers of rainbow coloured coral for the head of a curious eel — this is the scuba diving experience.

Scuba diving is one of those “must do before I die” kind of activities. It’s breathing in an environment humans were not made to breathe in, proof that we have extended our ability to live beyond the land.

Scuba diving lets every individual experience the world the same way a fish does — underwater. Just imagine having gills and roaming in the mysterious sea, blowing bubbles next to a sting ray, swimming alongside a white-tip reef shark, searching through layers of rainbow coloured coral for the head of a curious eel — this is the scuba diving experience.

Ryan Marianne works as an instructor with Big Blue Divers in Seychelles. His advice to all divers is to continue diving. He also says it is “important for divers to feel comfortable, and to think before acting in any emergency.”
When underwater, do as the fish do. Swim calmly above the coral or along a reef wall and keep your eyes peeled for different animals. But always remember, you are a visitor. The ocean belongs to other species, we are simply tourists. The ocean is also unpredictable and can be very dangerous, which is why it’s important to stay with your buddy and group throughout the dive. It’s easy to get carried away in the moment and scamper after a turtle swimming by, but, safety first.

Advanced Open Water Diver, Yuvaan Makar, describes his diving experience as something that makes him feel “one with nature.” His extensive experience and travel to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Thailan and Egypt has shaped his personality. He further says, “The places I’ve visited are starkly distinct and unique, but under the surface they are all connected by the one great ocean, and that unity really puts into perspective the unnecessary divides that have been imposed on the world above the surface.”

While Pune may be completely land locked, fear not. You don’t have to go far to explore scuba — Absolute Scuba is located right here in Pune. The company helps you get certified in many different pools around the city. This transition is perfect for beginner divers, as they have the opportunity to get comfortable being underwater in a controlled setting, rather than immediately venturing out into the sea. By diving, you’re joining a community of ocean lovers and explorers. According to Makar, divers share an “unmistakable vibe that crosses cultural, lingual and social boundaries.”